Put Your Chapter's Fundraising Gains to Work!
Phi Theta Kappa and Better World Books announced a partnership at the 2007 International Convention in Seattle, offering chapters an unprecedented opportunity for fundraising while making an altruistic impact. Since then, almost 200 chapters have hosted Better World Books book drives on their campuses, earning over $35,000!
There is no cost to implement a book drive on college campuses because Better World Books covers costs of materials and shipping. Since there is no limit to the amount of money a chapter can raise, the result is a low investment-high return fundraiser.
Better World Books mails checks to chapters twice per year, at the end of September for book drives taking place in the spring and summer, and at the end of February for fall events. Society chapters are finding the additional money useful for implementing chapter projects, offering membership fee assistance and traveling to Society events. Read on for ideas to make the most of your chapter's successful Better World Books fundraiser!
- The money can be placed in a chapter's operating budget and saved for a rainy day. The money is not earmarked for any particular purpose, so it can be used for unexpected expenses, or put to work in case of a natural disaster or other sudden need in the community and beyond.
- Use the money for membership fee assistance. When the Better World Books payments are mailed in September and February, many chapters are in the process of inviting students to accept membership in Phi Theta Kappa. For some students, the membership fee can be an obstacle to acceptance. A little financial help from the chapter can ensure these students are recognized for their achievements, and have access to the scholarship opportunities and other membership benefits offered by Phi Theta Kappa.
- Regional meetings are just getting started in September and February, and your fundraising dollars can defray the costs of travel, registration fees and meals for your members, allowing your chapter to bring more representatives to meetings.
- Registrations for the International Convention should be submitted online by March 9, 2007, for the lowest rate. Use the money from fall book drives to assist in paying registration fees and offer more members the opportunity to represent your chapter in Nashville, Tennessee.
- Apply the money you earned toward enhancing your new member orientation. If a student is eligible for membership in Phi Theta Kappa, they deserve recognition regardless of whether or not they accept the membership invitation. Host a banquet to celebrate these eligible students' achievements. Invite your college president to distribute certificates of achievement, and follow the banquet with an orientation explaining the benefits of Society membership.
Since each chapter has unique needs, it is important to individually evaluate how to make the most of your Better World Books funds. Meet as a chapter and discuss your ideas with your advisor to ensure the optimal return on your successful fundraiser!
To learn more about Better World Books and how your chapter can plan your fall book drive, visit www.betterworldbooks.com or contact Chapter Programs Assistant Amanda Lewis at 601.987.5546.